(From left) Uggah, Abang Johari and Fadillah wave Sarawak flags during the Sarawakku Sayang 2026 programme at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang in Sibu. – Ukas photo
SIBU (July 11): The proposed Bukit Assek redevelopment plan has received in-principle approval from the Sarawak State Planning Authority (SPA) and is expected to drive Sibu towards a new economic direction centred on sustainability and higher-value activities, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He expressed confidence that the redevelopment, which is expected to take at least 15 years to complete, would transform Sibu’s economic landscape.
“In principle, SPA has approved it, and secondly, to implement it. I believe, to develop a new area like this will take no less than 15 years.
“I am confident that it will change the economic activities of Sibu – towards a new economic pattern for Sibu, including of course, environmental sustainability.
“But to move in that direction, it will require the collective efforts of the people of Sibu and a government with the vision to shape a better future for the younger generation,” he said during the Sarawakku Sayang 2026 programme at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang here.
Abang Johari said this was also why the Sarawak government had introduced the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) to equip the younger generation with new knowledge and technological skills to support Sibu’s transformation.
“Ultimately, it will contribute to the shift in Sarawak. You must have the latest knowledge in terms of technology, in terms of managing our environment and in terms of giving value-added to our resources.
“This is the time for us to step forward,” he said.
He added that Sibu could potentially be developed into a low-carbon service cluster, similar to Bintulu’s recognition as an emerging industrial cluster by the World Economic Forum.
“If Bintulu is recognised by the World Economic Forum as an emerging industrial cluster, maybe, we can also propose and we do preparation… maybe Sibu can become a low carbon service cluster.
“Meaning, many companies are giving services to develop Sibu,” he said.
Abang Johari stressed that achieving this goal would not be easy, highlighting the importance of political stability and strong leadership with a clear vision to develop Sarawak and safeguard its rights.
Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof; deputy premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar; State Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee; and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.